The suspect has been named by the police with his initial and year of birth as DZ.K. (1983), a resident of Novi Pazar. He is currently held in up to 48 hours police custody.

The police officer, D.C., was shot in the stomach while on regular patrol, in front of the passers-by in Stefana Nemanje Street, Tanjug reported late on Thursday. He has been seriously injured and is now receiving medical treatment in Belgrade.

The officer's conditions was described as stable late last night.

The suspect will be charged with committing aggravated attempted murder and with illegal manufacturing, possession, carrying and trafficking of weapons and explosives. He will be brought before a prosecutor within the legal deadline, the Interior Ministry (MUP) announced.

Three more persons have been detained - F.S. (1984), E.Z (1980). and R.F (1974) - for helping the suspect after the crime had been committed.